Orban says EU bigger threat to Hungary than Russia
Deutsche Welle
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Viktor Orban, Hungary's prime minister, has claimed that the European Union (EU) poses a greater threat to his country than Russia. Speaking during a rally, Orban accused Brussels of undermining his government by supporting opposition parties, particularly the Tisza party led by Peter Magyar. He suggested that the EU is orchestrating the rise of Magyar's party, which has emerged as the main challenger to his nationalist Fidesz party ahead of April's elections. Orban described the EU as a "source of imminent danger," emphasizing that Hungary's sovereignty is at risk from Brussels rather than Moscow.
Orban's remarks reflect his long-standing opposition to EU policies and his alignment with anti-liberal movements across Europe. He criticized German lawmaker Manfred Weber, head of the European People's Party (EPP), and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for their alleged influence over Hungarian politics. Orban also accused civil society groups in Hungary of being manipulated by Brussels, vowing to target them if re-elected. His rhetoric underscores his broader strategy to frame the upcoming elections as a battle between national sovereignty and foreign interference.
The Tisza party, which Orban has portrayed as a pawn of EU elites, has positioned itself as an anti-corruption movement and advocates for closer alignment with Western institutions. Magyar, once a member of Fidesz, broke away over disagreements on ethics and policy. His rise to prominence has unsettled Orban, who sees the party as a threat to his government's stability. Meanwhile, Orban has sought to rally support by invoking figures like former U.S. President Donald Trump, whom he admires for challenging liberal global networks.
Orban's accusations come amid heightened tensions between Hungary and the EU, particularly over issues like energy policy and migration. His comments highlight the polarized political landscape in Hungary, where voters will decide whether to re-elect Orban or give Magyar's Tisza party a chance to lead. The outcome of the election could shape Hungary's relationship with the EU for years to come.
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/14/2026